Summer’s heat poses a significant health risk for workers, especially those in physically demanding jobs or hot environments. Heatstroke, a severe condition arising from excessive body temperature, can have serious consequences. This guide outlines the dangers of heatstroke, prevention measures, and responsibilities shared by both employers and employees in New Jersey. By working together and implementing these strategies, a safer and healthier work environment can be maintained during hot weather.
What Is Heat Stroke?
Heat stroke is a severe form of heat-related illness that occurs when a person’s body temperature rises to 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. It can result in a number of symptoms, including high body temperature, altered mental state or behavior, increased heartbeat, rapid breathing, flushed skin, headaches, nausea, and even loss of consciousness in worse situations.
Certain factors can increase the risk of developing heat stroke. High temperatures and humidity are two of the main causes, with direct exposure to the sun, limited airflow, strenuous physical activity, dehydration, and wearing heavy protective clothing or gear while working all exacerbating it. Heat stroke can occur not only outdoors in hot weather but also indoors in environments like factories, bakeries, or kitchens where the heat is intense.
Heat Stroke and Workers’ Compensation Claims
Heat stroke doesn’t only pose a severe health risk – it can also potentially lead to workers’ compensation claims, resulting in a significant financial burden on employers. If an employee suffers from heat stroke due to poor working conditions, they may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.
These benefits can cover medical expenses, lost wages due to the inability to work, and possibly even permanent disability benefits if the heatstroke causes long-lasting effects. While this is an essential safety net for employees, for employers, these costs can add up quickly. The cost of a single claim can reach tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, not to mention the indirect costs related to lost productivity, training replacement employees, increased insurance premiums, and potential damage to the company’s reputation. Therefore, it’s in the best interest of both employers and employees to take necessary precautions to prevent heat stroke in the first place.
Key Preventative Measures Against Heat Stroke
Employees, especially those who work outdoors or in hot indoor environments, should take regular breaks throughout the day. Ideally, these breaks should be spent in cool, shaded areas where workers can rest and allow their body temperature to decrease. This not only helps them recover physically but also maintains mental alertness and prevents fatigue-induced mistakes. Employers can encourage breaks by establishing designated cool-down zones and scheduling rest periods throughout the workday.
Hydration is another key aspect of preventing heat stroke. When the body overheats, it sweats profusely to regulate temperature. This sweating leads to a loss of fluids and electrolytes, needed to maintain proper body function. Drinking plenty of water or electrolyte-rich beverages throughout the day helps replenish these lost fluids and salts. Electrolyte drinks are particularly beneficial for workers engaged in strenuous physical activity, as they can help prevent muscle cramps and maintain blood volume. Employers can play a role by providing readily available, cool water and encouraging frequent hydration breaks. A good rule of thumb is to aim for at least one liter of water for every hour of heavy work in hot weather.
Employer Responsibilities
Employers have a crucial role to play in preventing heat stroke among their employees. Providing a safe working environment is the first step towards this. Simple things an employer can do to help employees would be to offer cool places to rest along with plenty of water. Having a well-ventilated work site is equally paramount given how many problems can stem from cramped spaces and poor ventilation.
Employers should educate employees on the importance of taking breaks and drinking enough water while on the job, especially during hot weather. Policies and procedures for working in hot environments should also be implemented, which outline preventative measures, response to heat-related illnesses, and emergency procedures.
Employee Responsibilities
Employees also have responsibilities in preventing heat stroke. They should take necessary precautions, such as wearing suitable clothing, using sunscreen, and staying hydrated during hot weather conditions. Employees should also speak up if they are feeling unwell on the job, particularly if the warning signs of heat stroke are already present or if the work environment increases their likelihood of developing it at some point.
It’s also helpful for employees to have each other’s backs. If a colleague appears to be exhibiting any of the symptoms outlined here, asking them how they feel and getting them something to drink and a place to rest can potentially prevent severe heat stroke before it happens.
Keep Your Cool at Work and Prevent Heat Stroke This Summer
Regular breaks and staying well-hydrated are fundamental in preventing heat stroke in the workplace. Both employers and employees have roles to play in ensuring a safe and healthy work environment. Employees can more easily keep cool and avoid heat stroke by taking proper precautions.
If you are facing challenges with a workers’ compensation claim due to heat stroke or another injury, contact Craig A. Altman, a New Jersey workers’ compensation lawyer. Get in touch by contacting us online or call (856) 327-8899 to learn more and hear your case today.
